Rethinking The Skies: Exploring The Future Of Flight with Tom Grundy

In this episode, Chris Caldwell introduces Tom Grundy, CEO of Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV), who shares his insights on the future of flight and the role of hybrid aircraft technology in creating a more sustainable aviation industry. The Airlander-10, HAV's iconic aircraft, represents a new category in aviation that promises to make air travel more efficient, accessible, and environmentally friendly.

Tom discusses the potential of hybrid aircraft to connect underserved regions, create new economic opportunities, and reduce the carbon footprint of air travel. He outlines HAV's vision for redefining the skies and paving the way for a greener future in aviation.

"…when I talk emotionally about what we're doing in the UK, it's because I see the power of what we're doing to create, something new for the next generation…"

"so we can do some of the things other aircraft can't. For passengers. It's really good because it means that we can't squeeze you in three abreast with the seat there in front of you…so you're going to get more space…"

"…the kicker is that that carbon dioxide is doing more damage by being emitted in the stratosphere rather than at ground level. And the contrails that are behind the aircraft, they're a big deal. We're only just really working out how big."

"…it's a really optimistic project. This is about creating better connections for a more sustainable future, not just delivering the same connections with a bit less CO2…it's something we can do here and now…"

This talk was given by Tom Grundy, CEO of Hybrid Air Vehicles, at the London Business School as part of their The Future of Flight: Rethinking the Skies Series on Wednesday, 26th June 2024, for more information on the series contact Christopher Moseley, Senior PR Manager, London Business School.

Christopher Moseley: https://bit.ly/3zsVt3X

HIGHLIGHTS:

Efficiency and versatility of aircraft operations

Climate change is driving industry changes.

Geopolitics impacting global aviation

Flight industry changing in the future

Efficiency gap between surface transport and aircraft

Aviation industry emissions forecasted to increase due to growth, but can be mitigated through various strategies.

Hydrogen as an alternative aviation fuel with potential challenges

Aviation emissions pose complex environmental challenges

Sustainable Aviation fuels require significant land and energy resources

Private investment in sustainable fuel is dwarfed by other aviation technologies like EVs.

Pioneering zero-emissions aircraft for better connectivity

Development of AirLand technology for large-scale infrastructure in aviation

Creating a sustainable future through green Aerospace manufacturing

Decarbonizing aviation through alternative flight technologies

Test pilots enjoy unique privileges.

Lack of progress in decarbonization and innovation in aviation

Infrastructure in aviation has evolved rapidly for passenger efficiency.

Lack of infrastructure investment hindering sustainable aviation fuel progress

Helium scarcity is a concern for the long-term use of airships.

Helium's varied industrial uses and supply stability

UK has the expertise and skills to create new opportunities for the next generation in aircraft design and manufacturing.

The hidden benefits of manufacturing are crucial for the UK and economies in general.

Belief in optimizing systems, processes, and people for optimum outcomes.

MBA changed leadership approach to be more understanding and mindful

Innovative aircraft design for more space and capacity

Certification system for aircraft types is diverse and specialized.

Reducing capital intensity by using dual forms of lift

Designing an airplane to meet the airline's costs, passenger comfort, emissions reduction, and on-time delivery.

Airlander developed with 130 million pounds, half funded by customers, the rest from grants and investors

Funding sources secured for the project

REFERENCES:

Linkedin - Tom Grundy: https://bit.ly/4gO71Qj

Linkedin - Hybrid Air vehicles: https://bit.ly/4eQRjCb

Hybrid Air Vehicles Website: https://www.hybridairvehicles.com

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